Psalms 138:6 – “Though the Lord is exalted, he looks kindly on the lowly; though lofty, he sees them from afar.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 138:6 reveals a profound truth about God’s character. Although God is “exalted,” meaning He is high above all creation, He still looks down with kindness and compassion on those who are humble and lowly. This verse highlights the paradox of God’s greatness: even though He is infinitely powerful and majestic, He is not distant or detached. Instead, He pays special attention to those who are often overlooked by the world—those who are humble, broken, or in need.
David also contrasts God’s approach to the proud. The verse implies that, while God sees everyone, there is a distance between Him and those who are arrogant. This distance is not because God is unwilling to draw near, but because the proud often push God away through their self-sufficiency. In contrast, the humble recognize their need for God, and He graciously draws near to them.
Historical Context
King David wrote these words in a time when earthly rulers often distanced themselves from the common people. In the ancient world, kings and emperors were seen as almost divine figures, far removed from the daily lives of ordinary people. Yet, David—himself a king—proclaims that the true King, the Lord of all creation, chooses to concern Himself with the lowly and humble.
David had firsthand experience of God’s kindness toward those who are humble. Before becoming king, David was a simple shepherd boy, yet God chose him over others who seemed more powerful and impressive. David knew that God’s favor is not given based on status or strength, but on humility and a heart that seeks Him.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes God’s loving character. Though He is exalted above all things, He is not a distant deity uninterested in the lives of His creation. God values humility and draws close to those who recognize their need for Him. This challenges the idea that God only favors the strong, successful, or outwardly religious. Instead, He looks with favor on those who are humble, admitting their dependence on Him.
For believers, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s ways are not like the world’s ways. God does not measure greatness by wealth, power, or influence. Instead, He values a humble heart that acknowledges its need for His guidance and grace.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 138:6 uses poetic language to illustrate God’s nature. The words “exalted” and “lofty” emphasize God’s greatness, while “looks kindly on the lowly” creates a striking contrast. This imagery helps readers understand that God’s greatness is not diminished by His compassion; rather, it is enhanced by His willingness to engage with the humble.
The phrase “sees them from afar” can be understood metaphorically. It suggests that, while God sees everyone, there is a kind of distance between Him and those who are proud. This distance is not physical but relational—a reflection of how pride can create a barrier to experiencing God’s presence.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 57:15 – “For this is what the high and exalted One says… I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit.”
- Proverbs 3:34 – “He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed.”
- James 4:6 – “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
- Luke 1:52 – “He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 138:6 is a powerful reminder that God values humility. In a world that often glorifies self-promotion, power, and pride, this verse calls believers to a different way of living. God’s attention and kindness are given to those who recognize their need for Him, not those who rely on their own strength or achievements.
This truth is also a comfort to those who feel overlooked or insignificant. God does not ignore or forget those who are lowly. Instead, He draws near to them with compassion. For those facing struggles, this verse reassures them that God sees their situation and cares deeply.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse beautifully illustrates the compassionate nature of God’s love. Despite His greatness, God is not too high to care for the humble. His love is not dependent on our status or achievements; it is freely given to those who come to Him with open hearts. This is a God who does not overlook the marginalized but actively seeks them out.
God’s kindness to the lowly is an expression of His loving character. It shows that He is not only a God of justice but also of mercy. He reaches out to those in need, lifting them up and offering them His comfort and strength.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ perfectly embodied the truth of Psalm 138:6. Though He was in the form of God, He humbled Himself, coming to earth as a servant to reach the lowly (Philippians 2:6-8). Throughout His ministry, Jesus demonstrated God’s heart for the humble by reaching out to the poor, the sick, and the outcasts. In Matthew 11:29, Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart.”
Jesus consistently showed kindness to those society considered lowly. His life was a testament to the truth that God’s greatness is not diminished by His compassion. In fact, His willingness to draw near to the broken and humble reveals the depth of God’s love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you cultivate humility in your own life, knowing that God looks kindly on the humble?
- Are there areas where pride might be keeping you from drawing closer to God?
- How does the fact that God cares for the lowly comfort you during difficult times?
- In what ways can you reflect God’s compassion toward those who are often overlooked by society?
- How does Jesus’ example of humility challenge the way you live your daily life?
Psalm 138:6 challenges us to live with humility and trust that God values those who recognize their need for Him. In a world that prizes self-reliance, this verse reminds us that true greatness is found in humble dependence on a loving and compassionate God.